Separating Bridger Strip From Juncture Of Panels Patents (Class 52/395)
  • Patent number: 6494007
    Abstract: An expansion joint curb assembly includes one or more pre-formed component structures fabricated from a non-corrosive, durable material. Each of the component structures include an anchoring flange for attachment to the roof structure, an upper flange defining a mounting base for attachment of various roofing components, such as expansion joint covers thereto, and an intermediate portion between the anchoring flange and the upper flange. The intermediate portion is provided with vent holes for venting gasses and moisture which accumulate within the roof structure, thereby reducing the likelihood of premature roof failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Inventor: Henry Gembala
  • Patent number: 6484465
    Abstract: The open joint wall panel system includes panels having a standardized shape attached to an extrudable track that, in turn, is attached to an exterior wall. Each panel is vertically positioned using dead load anchors and positioned relative to the exterior wall with anchor clips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Architectural Facades, Inc.
    Inventor: Wes J. Higgins
  • Patent number: 6484462
    Abstract: A seismic expansion joint cover includes a bridge panel having one end supported for movement in the y-axis direction and against movement in the x-axis direction relative to a floor A on one side of a motion-absorbing gap and supported at the other end for movement in the x-axis direction and against movement in the y-axis direction relative to a floor B. A recess in floor B receives a portion of the bridge panel in all positions of the bridge panel relative to floor B. A recess cover plate covers the recess, is supported at one end in sliding relation on the bridge panel in all positions of the bridge panel relative to floor B and is joined at the other end to an end member of the recess frame remote from the gap. A resiliently collapsible/extensible honeycomb panel received in the recess in floor B supports the portion of the recess cover plate that spans the recess between the end of the bridge panel and the end member of the recess frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Construction Specialties, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Shreiner, Roger W. Barr
  • Patent number: 6430884
    Abstract: A seismic expansion joint cover assembly installed at a motion-absorbing gap between a member A on one side of the gap and a member B on the other side of the gap includes a cover panel spanning the gap and a hinge joining one edge A of the cover panel to the member A for pivotal movement about a pivot axis. The pivot axis is spaced apart from the expansion gap so as to enable a stop between member A and the cover panel to prevent the cover panel from pivoting about the pivot axis into the expansion gap upon widening of the expansion gap. A permanent magnet and magnet striker releasably secure the other edge B of the cover panel to the member B. A tensioned cable connected between the cover panel and one of the members A and B limits the pivoting movements of the cover panel and automatically recloses the cover panel over the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Construction Specialties, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Shreiner, Roger W. Barr, Nathan Morris
  • Publication number: 20020050109
    Abstract: The invention relates to a joint cover comprising a base section to be fixed onto a support; a covering section; and one or more intermediate parts designed to receive the covering section by clipping, the intermediate part or parts defining a cavity for receiving a head of a longitudinal tab that the covering section comprises, and comprising on each side of a plane passing through an opening for access to the cavity, at least one external rib able to co-operate, by clipping of opposite shapes, with means of a longitudinal gully of the base section, and at least one internal tab for retaining said head in the intermediate part
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventor: Michel Grosjean
  • Patent number: 6354045
    Abstract: A system for roofing a substructure has a plurality of roof panels, a plurality of support members and a plurality of cap members. The roof panels each have a horizontal channel section bounded on a pair of opposing side edges by side flanges, with an upper end of each side flange bent to provide a groove opening outwardly laterally from the panel. The support members each have a pair of oppositely extending base flanges and a pair of oppositely extending top flanges, the base flanges and top flanges being positioned along a vertical web member. The top flanges are adapted to be received in the groove of one of a pair of adjacent roof panels and one of the base flanges of each support member is adapted to fasten the support member to the substructure. The cap members have side walls to retain the top flanges in the grooves without fastening the roof panel to the support member, thereby allowing some relative movement upon deflection of the roof panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventors: Mark Boone, Frank Resso, George Jones, Joseph Orlando, Bruce Boss
  • Patent number: 6354053
    Abstract: The joint includes at least two profile elements having such a shape as to enable mutual engagement thereof as a male part and at least a female part, each being integral with one of the edges of two adjacent slabs. One edge of the slab is provided with a substantially L-shaped female profile, whose vertical stem extends all along the edge up to the sharp edge of the upper surface of the slab, and whose base stem extends towards the inner part of the slab and is downwardly folded to form a further stem, extending parallel to the base stem and forming a small space therebetween, for possible engagement of a part of the male profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Eurosteel S.A.
    Inventor: Pierre Raymond Kerrels
  • Patent number: 6345480
    Abstract: The invention provides a height-adjustable bridging device for joints between floor coverings. The bridging device includes an upper element and a base element. The upper element includes a generally perpendicular retaining bar. The retaining bar includes a holding device. The base element also includes retaining bars which are structured to cooperate with the upper element retaining bar holding device. A support device, which includes another upper element retaining bar and a force uptake piece, such as a base element bar, is disposed on the upper element and the base element respectively. The support device aids in preventing the upper element from tipping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: Hermann Friedrich Kunne GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Hans A. Kemper, Frank Sondermann
  • Patent number: 6301852
    Abstract: A window or door glazing assembly for providing structural support to the window or door frame, the assembly includes a muntin comprising a reinforcing bar fixedly secured to opposite sides of a window frame and having a pair of muntin faces removably secured to the sides of the reinforcing bar whereby the muntin face may be disassembled from the reinforcing bar to permit access to the window panes for purposes of replacement or maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: The Woodstone Company
    Inventor: H. Jay Eshelman
  • Publication number: 20010025461
    Abstract: A device for forming expansion joints between the fields of a floor covering laid on a raw floor, comprises limiting sections that are tied to the edges of the floor covering limiting the joint, as well as to the corresponding fastening mortar. The two limiting sections are joined with each other in a sliding manner parallel with the fields of the floor covering. The two limiting sections have approximately U-shaped cross sections. In their sliding connection, in which the two limiting sections are directed against each other, they jointly have a cross section in the form of a double “T”.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventor: Werner Schluter
  • Patent number: 6253514
    Abstract: A pre-cured caulk joint system including a joint having a width and opposite walls, an insert being formed of a flexible material and having a length and a width, and an adhesive. The width of the insert being greater than the width of the joint, the insert being received in the joint length-wise with the insert being compressed width-wise along its length, the insert having opposite walls, with one wall facing towards one wall of the joint, and the other wall of the insert facing towards the other wall of the joint, a channel being defined by each wall of the insert, and an adhesive being received in each wall of the insert for adhering the walls of the insert to the walls of the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventors: Mark Jobe, Ronald D. Tatley
  • Patent number: 6167667
    Abstract: A expansion joint cover for covering the top or exposed side of an expansion joint in a structure. The expansion joint cover includes a plate having top and bottom faces, and a pair of sides. The plate also has a plurality of spaced apart fastening holes therethrough extending between the top and bottom faces of the plate. Each fastening hole comprises upper and lower portions. The outer diameter of the upper portion of each fastening hole is greater than the outer diameter of the associated lower portion of the respective fastening hole such that each fastening bore has an annular shoulder formed between the upper and lower portions of the respective hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: Petru Balaban
  • Patent number: 6026621
    Abstract: A muntin for attachment to a construction block structure is constructed of a tubular member having a top and a bottom. A channel extends along the length of the bottom. At least one prong, having a generally triangular head extends outwardly from the channel. The muntin is placed into a grout groove of the construction block structure such that the prong and head are received within the grout and the grout seeps into the channel. Once the grout dries, the muntin is securely held to the construction block structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Myles A. Fisher
  • Patent number: 5911662
    Abstract: A cover for tank is formed from a plurality of panels attached together by cross members. The panels are sealed to the cross members, and the panels and the cross members are sealed to the tank. The panels are constructed from a multiplicity of edge-to-edge planks. The planks may be connected together without welds, and the panels may be connected to the cross members without welds. The cover may be in the shape of an arch, or the shape of a dome. In another embodiment a dome-shaped cover may be formed from a plurality of panels each having the shape of a section of a circle. Each panel is connected between an adjacent pair of a plurality of radial members arranged in a radial pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Hallsten Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Hallsten
  • Patent number: 5887400
    Abstract: An expansion joint control system wherein a blockout is formed between structural members such as a floor or wall and a gap allowing for expansion and contraction is defined between the structural members. The blockout defines opposed vertical faces and inwardly extending transverse surfaces with a flexible membrane spanning the distance between vertical faces. A slide plate is attached beneath the center of the membrane. Base members are positioned on the transverse surfaces for supporting the sides of the membrane and are in sliding contact with the slide plate. The slide plate and base members are formed of polymeric materials preferably having thermal expansion characteristics similar to concrete. The system elements occupy a blockout having a depth of one inch or less. The polymeric material can be readily bent on site making the system particularly useful for stadiums, etc. which have continuously changing elevations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Assignee: Watson Bowman Acme Corp.
    Inventors: David J. Bratek, John E. Sobol
  • Patent number: 5829216
    Abstract: A support for connecting a facade to at least one and preferably two buildings permits limited movement of the facade during seismic disturbances. The support includes a coupler presenting a projecting member and a mount presenting a receiver complementally configured with the projecting member. In one application, the projecting member and receiver define a track for permitting relative translational movement therealong, while in another application the projecting member and receiver define a hinge which may permit both limited pivotal movement and limited translational movement between the projecting member and the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Balco/Metalines, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen L. Newcomb, Trest Polina, Dale A. Schmitt
  • Patent number: 5815988
    Abstract: An expandable retractable portable structure having a movable portion hingedly connected to a stationary portion and wherein the movable portion pivotally encloses the stationary portion of the structure in its retracted position and wherein, in its expanded position, the structure provides maximum interior space for use. An actuating mechanism includes one or more hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders connected to a linkage system. The actuator is located inside the structure on the floor of the stationary portion and the linkage system driven by the actuator is connected to the floor of the movable portion so that the movable portion is rotated by the actuator and linkage system between its expanded and retracted positions. The actuator and linkage system are removably mounted inside the structure and may be readily removed from the structure and used to open or close other structures. Alternatively, the actuator may be left inside the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Jose Ramon Molina
  • Patent number: 5809729
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for attaching panel members to perimeter framing members to form a wall. The apparatus attaches the perimeter framing members to the panel member by an attachment member located between a surface of the panel member and a wall of a pocket of the perimeter framing member. To receive the attachment member, which is an elongated rod, the panel member and perimeter framing member form an elongated passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Elward Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Everett Lee Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5611185
    Abstract: A grid system for supporting panels and adaptable for use in association with a substructure, comprising a plurality of spaced, horizontally disposed main runners and cross-runners arranged perpendicular to each other. The main runners are adaptable for attachment to the substructure, and include (i) a crosspiece having a horizontally oriented surface provided with a plurality of spaced notches and (ii) a downwardly depending member terminating with a horizontally disposed flange. The cross-runners have horizontally disposed flanges arranged in a common plane with the flanges of the main runners, which support the tile panels in a common plane. The cross-runners include connecting means for insertion in the notches upon the perpendicular arrangement, and the connecting means have a horizontally oriented surface for mating with the surface of the crosspiece and disposed for overlapping engagement with the crosspiece thereby supporting the cross-runner and preventing undesired disengagement therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Assignees: Thomas B. Van Wyk, Linda M. Van Wyk
    Inventor: Steve C. Wilz
  • Patent number: 5584527
    Abstract: An improved semi-trailer panel assembly which offers the strength and durability of a standard "post and sheet panel" trailer as well as the lighter weight and increased cargo area which, until now, has only been associated with a "plate-type" trailer. Multiple rectangular panels having a generally corrugated design are placed side-by-side upon the side of a semi-trailer. Seam extrusion members, each having two elongated grooves, are positioned between adjacent panels whereby the side edges of these panels are inserted into the grooves and secured in place with a flexible adhesive; no bolts or rivets are necessary for this function.. Small connection clips are also provided which snap over the side edges of the panels and ensure the proper positioning of the panel edges within the grooves for adhesion purposes. The upper and lower edges of all panels and extrusion members are then secured with bolts or rivets to the upper and lower base rails, respectively, of the trailer frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Oshkosh Truck Corporation
    Inventor: Don H. Sitter
  • Patent number: 5572843
    Abstract: A roof cladding system includes flexible, waterproof, plastics material sheet and feature strips each comprising a base strip and an interchangeable cap. Caps having different profiles may be used to provide different ornamentation. The base strip is flexible to the sheet and has upturned elongate lips acting as latches for downwardly projecting in-turned flanges of the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignees: Jordan, Kornelow
    Inventor: Franklin F. Jordan
  • Patent number: 5490358
    Abstract: A retainer and weatherseal for structurally bonded glazing, which includes an elongate retainer profile having a generally H-shaped transverse cross section, thereby forming a pair of elongate U-shaped retaining channels; and securing device for securing the profile coextensively along a curtainwall framing member, such that one side of the pair of retaining channels is urged against the framing member. The retainer may be in combination with a curtainwall framing member, which includes a framing member having securing device longitudinally along the outward face of the framing member, for receiving the securing device and which are reciprocally configured, the retainer being secured to the framing member with the securing device interlocked in the securing device. The retainer and framing member combination are utilized in a curtainwall framing system having structurally bonded glazing wherein each of the intermediate vertical framing members of the system include the retainer and framing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Assignee: Kawneer Company
    Inventors: Fred A. Grunewald, Dean C. DeBoy, Wayne E. Whitmyer
  • Patent number: 5383316
    Abstract: An expansion joint and flexible seal for refractory lined flues includes a baffle system in combination with a filter element and an air purge system for preventing egress of flue particulates. The baffle system is slideably positionable to accommodate relative lateral displacement of the flues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: Pyropower Corporation
    Inventors: James Burke, Ed Linck
  • Patent number: 5263287
    Abstract: A flashing for sealing a waterproof roofing membrane to a vertical wall such as a parapet wall around the roof, including an elongated mounting flange for connection to the wall, a top flange and wall flange which define a filler channel with the vertical wall. An elongated elastromeric filler piece is adapted to fit closely within the filler channel with an overlapped portion of the roofing membrane for a temporary adjustable hold on the roofing membrane. A set of finger like tabs preferably punched out of the wall flange may be bent into the filler channel beneath the membrane and filler piece to hold it securely therein. Alternative embodiments for use with pre-existing walls and for attachment to a brick and motar wall at the time of construction are shown, as are corner pieces for sealing inside and outside corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Assignee: The Bilco Company
    Inventor: George Lyons, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5245808
    Abstract: A retainer and weatherseal for structurally bonded glazing, which includes an elongate retainer profile having a generally H-shaped transverse cross section, thereby forming a pair of elongate U-shaped retaining channels; and securing device for securing the profile coextensively along a curtainwall framing member, such that one side of the pair of retaining channels is urged against the framing member. The retainer may be in combination with a curtainwall framing member, which includes a framing member having securing device longitudinally along the outward face of the framing member, for receiving the securing device and which are reciprocally configured, the retainer being secured to the framing member with the securing device interlocked in the securing device. The retainer and framing member combination are utilized in a curtainwall framing system having structurally bonded glazing wherein each of the intermediate vertical framing members of the system include the retainer and framing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Assignee: Kawneer Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred A. Grunewald, Dean C. DeBoy, Wayne E. Whitmyer
  • Patent number: 5230192
    Abstract: A roofing system having preferred metallic roofing panels overlying a roof structure or a substrate (such as a waterproof membrane) includes a mat of loosely-woven ventilation mesh material between the panels and the roof structure or substrate in order to provide proper ventilation, thus minimizing corrosion resulting from condensed moisture. The mesh is preferably composed of an extruded thermosetting plastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1993
    Assignee: W. P. Hickman Company
    Inventors: William C. Webb, Richard G. Tuttle, Donald W. Schultz, Ralph Kirby, John B. Hickman, Nelson M. Ferg, Mark D. Braine
  • Patent number: 5209503
    Abstract: The seal is provided at a joint between two ducts, which are traversed by hot gases. It has a seat for the seal and an elastic compensator strip, which spans the gap between the two ducts. A woven wire cloth is provided under the compensator strip. A metal foil is provided over the woven wire cloth and a packing of ceramic fibers is provided over the metal foil. A seat member for the seal is joined to each of the two ducts. Each seat member is provided with a row of pointed rods of metal, which extend through the woven wire cloth, the metal foil and the packing of ceramic fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1993
    Assignee: Metallgesellschaft Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Jurgen Heibel, Peter Brinkmann, Peter Schmaing
  • Patent number: 5177921
    Abstract: The substantially leak proof glazing system comprises a plurality of sheets of glazing material assembled on a reticulated space frame. Rather than sealing the glazing material to the supporting structure, there is a gasket bridging the gap between adjacent sheets of glazing material and sealing against the inside faces of the sheets to provide a glass-to-glass seal. The gasket has a generally U-shaped transverse cross section with the rounded end of each leg of the U bearing against the face of the glazing material. Belleville springs are provided for resiliently biasing the glazing material toward the gasket to compensate for compression set of the gasket. A Belleville spring is also used for compressing the base of the gasket against an underlying support to provide a reliable seal around a stud that penetrates the gasket for supporting the Belleville springs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Assignee: Space Biospheres Venture
    Inventor: William F. Dempster
  • Patent number: 5155952
    Abstract: A glazing profile strip (1) which has a foot (9) with a toothing (10) for anchoring the strip (1) on a spacer (2) connected to the structure (4) of the building, has a slot (11) in that foot (9). This slot initiates at the outside (12) of the two sealing lips (6) protruding from the foot (9) and first forms a though-like enlargement (13). This enlargement serves for receiving a filler profile strip (17) that is connected to the sealing lips (6) only by thin bridges (18). The slot then continues below that enlargement by forming a narrow portion (14) having a flared mouth (141) and terminates in a larger groove (15). The narrow portion (14) is formed by two ribs opposed to each other which have a lower side (25) formed as an undercut. That side (25) serves as a rest for a head of a replacement filler profile strip which is inserted into the slot. Prior to this insertion, the present filler profile strip (17) is removed by separating its thin bridges (18) from the walls of the enlargement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Assignee: Mero-Raumstruktur GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Norbert Herwegh, Wolfgang Kemmer
  • Patent number: 5088255
    Abstract: A glazing system for a wooden door or window employs coextruded vinyl trim strips which have a planar base with flexible compression members and flexible seal tubes and a projecting barb extending from the base. The trim strips engage in kerfs in the window sash and the seal tubes are compressed against the window lights by extruded aluminum trim caps which engage with the trim strip barbs and against the sash. Sashes which have more than one light separated by a wooden muntin are glazed with a vinyl extruded muntin strip which is attached to the muntin so that a flexible seal tube which is a part of the muntin strip base overlies the glass lights on each side of the muntin. An extruded aluminum muntin cap is snap-fit to the muntin strip such that the muntin strip seal tubes are compressed against the window glass. The aluminum muntin cap and trim caps substantially cover and shield the trim strips and muntin strips from exposure to sunlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Lincoln Wood Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian A. Emanuel
  • Patent number: 5074089
    Abstract: The sealing device serves for tightly sealing the gap (6) between adjacent elements (1) of the inclined facade or roof against the access of water, by forming several sealing planes (A--A, B--B, C--C, D--D). To this effect a network of sealing pieces is created. These pieces each consist of a lower portion (21) and an upper one (22). The lower portion (21) also acts as a support for the elements and comprises a bearing surface (214) each between two sealing lips (212, 213). The upper portion (22) consists of a metal rail (22) and of a sealing stip (222) which overlaps the rail laterally and rest on the elements. That sealing strip which extends in the slope or direction of the fall comprises two substantially vertical webs (228). These webs form a drainage channel for water that may have penetrated, together with substantially parallel lateral sealing lips (224) which also seal the faces of the elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignees: Mero-Raumstruktur GmbH & Co., Datwyler AG, Schweiz. Kabel-, Gummi- und Kunstoffwerke
    Inventors: Wolfgang Kemmer, Norbert Herwegh
  • Patent number: 5058756
    Abstract: A semi-monocoque or stressed skin cargo vehicle uses plates interconnected and reinforced by flanged side posts and the plates are sandwiched between by top and bottom rails and the posts, the flanges being of substantially the same thickness as the plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Assignee: Trailmobile, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Green
  • Patent number: 4941300
    Abstract: A sealing system is shown for sealing between a waterproof roofing membrane and a curb around a roof opening, including a cap flashing for the curb, a top flange connected to the cap flashing and extending outwardly therefrom and a wall flange connected to the top flange which extends downwardly and forms a filler channel defined by the top flange, the wall flange and the curb. The roofing membrane is held in the filler channel by folding it over a longitudinal resilient filler material sized to fit closely within the filler channel. A plurality of spaced-apart tabs integral with the wall flange are bent into the filler channel beneath the filler material to securely hold the membrane therein without the necessity for any loose fasteners. A preassembled sealing system perimeter frame ready for mounting on an existing curb, a sealing system with an attached hatchway cover, and a complete hatchway with perimeter frame sealing system, cover, curb and associated flashing are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1990
    Inventor: George Lyons, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4893448
    Abstract: A covering for an expansion joint is formed of a plurality of monolithic steel elements that are arranged to be self-cleaning and so as not to be subject to binding. The joint has an overall T-shape and is bilaterally symmetric. The joint includes two L-shaped portions each attached to a structural element for movement therewith. The joint cover has a steel plate on one leg of each L-shaped portion bordering the expansion gap. A spacer plate is also fixed to the leg of the L-shaped portion and forms a sealant-receiving channel with the leg and the plate. An expansion gap spanner plate slidably rests on top of the plate and a cover plate is fixed at one end to the spacer plate and slidingly engages the spanner plate to keep it in the desired position and orientation during movement of the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1990
    Inventor: Wilbert McCormick
  • Patent number: 4882890
    Abstract: A weather seal for expandable roof joints or roof-to-wall joints is provided with an elastomeric outer seal, retaining means for receiving flashing or portions of the building structure, and further for receiving a clamping bar and continuously applied sealant material. The weather seal is further provided with means for retaining insulation/support material against the inner surface of the elastomeric outer seal. An inner membrane, or gutter member, may be positioned within the joint and affixed to the structure sections between the elastomeric outer seal to provide improved imperviousness of the weather seal. Flashing material may be appropriately shaped to receive portions of the weather seal for securing the weather seal in place of the clamping bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1989
    Inventor: Michael C. Rizza
  • Patent number: 4854095
    Abstract: A system is disclosed to add color to a locking strip gasket curtainwall having a plurality of vertical and horizontal gasket strips; each gasket strip having an outer periphery. The system comprises a mechanism for covering the vertical and horizontal gasket strips. The covering mechanism has an inner periphery having a shape substantially corresponding to the outer periphery of the gasket strips to be adapted to abut the gasket strip. A member projects from the inner periphery of the covering mechanism to secure the covering mechanism into the locking strip cavities of the gasket strips. This member replaces the conventional locking strip. A pigmented mechanism is coupled with the covering mechanism to provide the covering mechanism with a tinted aesthetic appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Assignee: The Standard Products Company
    Inventor: John J. Michlovic
  • Patent number: 4843791
    Abstract: A joint fitting to position about the intersection of at least two gasket strips is disclosed. The fitting includes a first rigid member and second elastic member to cover the intersection of two or more gasket strips. The second elastic member is positioned over the intersection of the two or more gasket strips. The first rigid member is positioned over the second elastic member at the intersection of the two or more gasket strips. A mechanism to secure the first and second members onto the two or more gasket strips is coupled with the first and second members such that the first rigid member exerts force upon the second elastic member and two or more gasket strips to effectively seal the intersection of the two or more gasket strips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1989
    Assignee: The Standard Products Company
    Inventor: John J. Michlovic
  • Patent number: 4817963
    Abstract: A method of sealing a joint between two adjacent members comprises the steps of forming a gap between the members to be sealed and then introducing a bead of resilient solid material into the gap. The bead is subsequently treated to render it temporarily plastic or fluid so as to cause it to adhere to the facing edges of the members. This treatment can best be effected using a hot air blower. The bottom of the bead may be provided with a non-adhesive strip to prevent adhesion to the bottom of the gap, or the process may be performed in such a way that the bottom portion of the bead is not fused so that it does not adhere to the bottom of the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1989
    Assignee: Hot Melt Systems Limited
    Inventors: Alan J. Munden, John R. Leith
  • Patent number: 4730429
    Abstract: A window construction is disclosed wherein a unitary vinyl seal 36, corresponding in shape to the window sash 20 and frame 18, is employed to seal the translucent panes 28, 30, 31, etc., in position. Double-backed adhesive foam tape strips 38, 40, 42, 44, 45, 46, etc., serve to sealingly bond vinyl seal 36, 36a, and 66 to the translucent panes, the associated sash 20 and frame 18 structure. Replacement of broken panes involves cutting around the periphery of the broken pane (FIGS. 6 and 7), removing the cut segment, installing a replacement pane and sealing it in position. The same segment of vinyl seal 36 removed, or a new seal 66 cut or formed to the same dimensions as the segment cut away, is employed to seal the replacement pane 28a in position. Sealing of the new seal (FIG. 7) is accomplished by an essentially triangular strip of adhesive foam tape 68 having adhesive on all surfaces thereof. Similar replacement seals can also be formed from the embodiments illustrated in FIGS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1988
    Inventor: Gary W. Roberts
  • Patent number: 4649684
    Abstract: Panel systems and installations thereof are provided wherein laterally opposite flanges of panel and flange means in the system form a gap with one another, and those flanges are adapted to be anchored to sub-structure, such as of a building, with the anchor means used for that purpose leading within the gap between the flanges and into grooves in the flanges which widen the gap locally between the flanges. Outer lateral ends of the anchored flanges are covered by cover means which engages engagable means of the panel and flange means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1987
    Assignee: MM Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Larry M. Petree, Julian J. Attaway, Randolph W. Driggers
  • Patent number: 4606162
    Abstract: A glazed partition system adaptable to various angles of intersection comprises an L-shaped mullion having a socket at its upper end in which two opposed glazing rails are pivotable and an arcuate flange at its lower end which releasably engages one glazing rail and slidably engages the opposed glazing rail. The sills 14 and 16 are placed at the desired angles and the glazing rail 38L and the mullion 18 are fastened at right angles to the sills 16 and 14, respectively. The glazing rail 38R is then snapped onto the mullion 18 and the window panes 50L and 50R are set in place. A plurality of similarly shaped pivot clips may be used in place of the elongate mullion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1986
    Assignee: United States Gypsum Company
    Inventor: Alan C. Wendt
  • Patent number: 4601144
    Abstract: A system for trimming, insulating and sealing between two separate elements of a building structure. The system includes an elongated strip of material, such as wood, having a channel on its reverse side which is wider than the width of a gap in the building structure which is to be covered by the strip. A compressible insulant, such as foam, is disposed in the channel and, like the channel, has a width greater than the width of the gap so that the insulant seals between the two building elements when the strip is installed. The insulant extends outwardly from the channel so that it is compressed when the strip is installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1986
    Inventor: Jerome Tinti
  • Patent number: 4594831
    Abstract: A steel door frame with thermal break characterized by a complete separation of exterior and interior components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1986
    Assignee: American Welding & Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: Rodney W. Winyard
  • Patent number: 4557089
    Abstract: The invention concerns the provision of structural elements for building facades and the like, which are provided for fire protection according, for example, to German Industrial Standard requirements. Accordingly, measures should be provided for self-supporting fire protection elements which prevent the spreading of fire, for example, from floor to floor, regardless of whether the fire comes from the outside or the inside. This object is achieved in that the composite connecting body (4) consists of at least one statically loadable bearing body having an aluminum core (18) which is completely or partially surrounded by fire suppressant material (9). This fire suppressant material (9) can be provided with or without a covering (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1985
    Assignee: Trube & Kings KG
    Inventor: Albert Breithaupt
  • Patent number: 4476658
    Abstract: A roofing panel system including a plurality of elongated panels disposed in side-by-side parallel array on a supporting roof structure, each panel having an upwardly projecting longitudinal flange along each side with the flanges of adjacent panels together constituting a standing seam at the junction of the panels. A plurality of clips, fastened to the roof structure along each standing seam and interposed between the adjacent panel flanges constituting that seam, engage the tops of the adjacent panel flanges to anchor the panels to the roof structure and also support the adjacent panels from below. Each standing seam is covered by an elongated cap member snap-fitted over the tops of the adjacent panel flanges and bearing sealant material which engages the tops of the latter flanges to seal the seam. The top portion of each panel flange is bent toward the other flange of the panel to form a leg, over which the cap member extends, having a flat upwardly facing surface for contact with the sealant material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1984
    Assignee: Alcan Aluminum Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas O. Johnstone
  • Patent number: 4463534
    Abstract: A greenhouse structure made of glass panels and having spaced parallel rails for supporting the structure, the glass panels being attached and supported at the upper portions of the rails, and a second set of transparent panels made of plastic material, the panels of the second set being attached and supported at the lower portion of the rails. The invention includes a special construction in which the rails have rims and a strip of plastic material extends about the lower part of the rails and engages a rim on the rail, this plastic material providing a pair of lips which receive the edge of the plastic panels.The invention also includes methods of assembly in which a plastic panel is bowed to shorten the distance between the side edges of the panels so that it may be positioned between rails and then relaxed to cause the edges of the panel to snap into place between the lips of the plastic strip which is carried by each of the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1982
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1984
    Inventor: T. P. Crigler
  • Patent number: 4461131
    Abstract: An assembly or panels of rectangular shape, as for example, a floor, in which the panels comprise upper and lower rigid sheets separated by a core, elongated fittings extending along adjacent edges of adjacent panels and having lateral extensions received between edge portions of the sheets of the panels. Each fitting has an upwardly open channel located beyond the edge of the associated panel. Adjacent fittings, and hence adjacent panels are secured together by elongated connector strips which have parallel elongated lugs received in the channels of the adjacent fittings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1984
    Assignee: AAR Corporation
    Inventor: Mark A. Pressell
  • Patent number: 4455803
    Abstract: Apparatus for the sealing of flat roof elements or the like which are supported at their corners, comprising a bowl-shaped part disposed on the outside edge of the roof elements in the area of the top edges thereof, the bowl-shaped part running substantially parallel to these edges. A sealing tape is placed in the bowl-shaped part, and a cover rail having arms bent downwardly at an angle is provided for engagement with any two adjacent roof elements in the bowl-shaped part. The cover rail serves to press the sealing tape by means of screws which are inserted between the cover rail and the adjacent roof elements beneath the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1984
    Assignee: MERO-Raumstruktur GmbH & Co. Wurzburg
    Inventor: Otto Kornberger
  • Patent number: 4428171
    Abstract: A storefront system for commercial buildings includes a series of spaced mullions with horizontal supports connected at their ends to the mullions to form a rear support for glass panels. A series of support clips are located at the intersections of the mullions and horizontal supports, with the support clips being fastened to the mullions and with the horizontal supports being mounted to the support clips. Similar support clips are attached to the horizontal supports intermediate the mullions and function to support the glass panels. A plurality of attachment clips also extend from the mullions and horizontal supports, between the glass panels, and cover plates are mounted on the attachment clips. The attachment clips are fabricated from a material having a low coefficient of heat transfer, so that heat from one side of the storefront is not readily transferred to the other side of the storefront.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1984
    Assignee: Atlantic Richfield Company
    Inventor: Lawrence S. Harbin
  • Patent number: 4400922
    Abstract: A panel mounting clip assembly is adapted to connect the intermediate longitudinal ribs of panel members and the rib-like joints between adjacent ones of the panel members to panel support members. The clip assembly comprises a base member that is fastened to the panel support member and a top clip that is frictionally engaged with interior surfaces of the ribs or joints to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction of the panels. The top clip-to-base member connection provides for movement of the top clip transversely of the length of the panel member thereby to accommodate rib-to-clip and joint-to-clip misalignments. The top clip-to-base member connection also provides for limited universal movement of the top clip relative to the base member to accommodate any inherent minor distortions in the profile of the intermediate ribs or the panel elements of the rib-like joint. A roof or wall structure utilizing the panel mounting clip assembly is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1983
    Assignee: H. H. Robertson Company
    Inventor: Keith D. Boyer